It is an alternate future from the one we know. The world has become a darker, more dangerous place. Ten years ago, Superman retired in disgrace after a new superhero named Magog killed the Joker and was acquitted of murder. Magog was seen as the superhero of the future. The people "chose the man who would kill over the man who wouldn't." With Superman's retirement, his whole generation went into seclusion, acting, if they continued at all, behind the scenes.

The current generation of "heroes" is reckless and violent, unconcerned with issues such as protecting the lives of bystanders. The world's delicate situation finally came to the fore with the destruction of Kansas through Magog's recklessness. In response, Superman came out of retirement, forming a new Justice League to deal with the threat of the newer, violent breed of heroes.